Coronary Artery Disease has a collection of telling symptoms. These symptoms are warning signs that something may be wrong and that you should see your physician. If you have CAD, you may first experience:
- chest pain (angina)
- shortness of breath
The pain or chest pressure is often an alarm or warning signal that your heart is not receiving enough oxygen. This uncomfortable signal may be felt in the chest while radiating to the neck and/or arms. Arm discomfort is usually felt on the left side. These pain or pressure symptoms may happen during:
- physical exertion
- eating
- changes in temperature
- times of stress
A person with CAD may also have numbness in the arms and/or shoulders. Additional symptoms include:
- heartburn
- nausea
- profuse sweating
CAD symptoms may warn of eventual heart attack
If CAD symptoms continue untreated, damage to the heart muscle cells (cardiac ischemia) may lead to a heart attack (myocardial infarction). Signs of a heart attack can include:
- Sharp pain, pressure, or squeezing sensation in the chest
- Pain radiating to shoulder, neck, jaw, back, or arm
- Breathing difficulty
- Nausea and abdominal pain
- Dizziness
- Heartburn
- Paleness
- Increased or irregular heart rate
- Feelings of anxiety, nervousness, or impending doom
Remember that CAD symptoms are warning signals and that prompt treatment may prevent more serious consequences, such as a heart attack, to your health, quality of life, and longevity.
If you have experienced any of the above symptoms, consult your physician for a diagnosis and treatment.
Last update: 31.07.2005
